Caddisfly identification (Trichoptera)


Insect identifier · Often confused insects

How to identify a Caddisfly

Trichoptera
· Also called sedge fly, perlworm adult

Caddisfly identification photo

People search “caddisfly” because it looks like something that bites. Caddisfly (Trichoptera) does not bite or sting people. Also called sedge fly, perlworm adult.

Moth-like insects coating a riverside light are usually caddisflies.

What does a caddisfly look like?

Caddisfly is Moth-like, about 6–20 mm. Colors: brown, tan, gray. Marks: Hairy wings held roof-like; Long antennae; No scales like a moth; No beak.

Caddisfly is Moth-like, about 6–20 mm. Colors: brown, tan, gray. Marks: Hairy wings held roof-like; Long antennae; No scales like a moth; No beak.

Identification marks

  • Hairy wings held roof-like
  • Long antennae
  • No scales like a moth
  • No beak

Size: Moth-like, about 6–20 mm
Colors: brown, tan, gray
Where: outdoor

Caddisfly vs Mayfly

Roof-like hairy wings near a river = caddisfly. A beak and a hum = mosquito.

Range and season

Active warm months, often at lights. Places: water, lake, yard. Adults rest near streams and lakes. They do not bite. Larvae build cases in the water.

Streamsides and porch lights near water.

Adults rest near streams and lakes. They do not bite. Larvae build cases in the water.

Warm months, often at lights

Common questions

Do caddisflies bite?

No.

Caddisfly vs moth?

Caddisflies have hairy wings and long antennae and stay near water.

Related identification pages